Keratin-associated protein 5-6 (KRTAP5-6)

Keratin-associated protein 5-6 (KRTAP5-6) is a protein-coding gene expressed primarily in the hair cortex, where it contributes to the structure of the hair shaft. It encodes a member of the keratin-associated protein family, which serves as an interfilamentous matrix surrounding hair keratin intermediate filaments. These proteins are rich in cysteine residues, allowing extensive disulfide bond cross-linking that imparts rigidity and resistance to the hair shaft[3]. KRTAP5-6 is classified as a high-sulfur protein and is essential for hair formation, but it is not recognized as a receptor, enzyme, transporter, or other common therapeutic drug target[3]. There are no known drugs targeting this protein, and it is not attributed a major role in disease outside of genetic hair disorders.

Other names

KAP5.6KRTAP5.6keratin-associated protein 5.6ultrahigh sulfur keratin-associated protein 5.6